Vorsteiner Releases VRS Aero Package for the BMW X6 M [with VIDEO]

Following a teaser announcement back in March, German tuning specialist Vorsteiner has launched its new VRS Aero Package for the BMW X6 M crossover. Trying to improve the X6 M's appereance ain't an easy task, though Vorsteiner seems to have pulled this one off with its new kit.

At the front, the Germans opted for a carbon fiber front spoiler, which increases downforce on the front axle while also channeling more air towards the engine and brakes. The new hood is also made from the same lightweight material and features vents that extract the heat produced by the stock 555 hp twin-turbocharged V8.

A carbon fiber diffuser replacing the plastic factory piece dominates the rear, encompassing three modular fins and two vents. The latter cool the exhaust system.

An add-on rear deck lid spoiler and forged mono-block aluminum alloys, shod in Michelin PS2 tires, complete the package. If potential customers don’t like the rims showcased on the SUV, they need not worry, as Vorsteiner has a wide variety of wheels they can choose from.

By Csaba Daradics

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Video: Dacia Logan with Volkswagen 2.8-liter VR6 Engine!

I don’t know if the word Dacia gives James May that fizzing sensation he often talks about, but the Top Gear host seems pretty fond of the Romanian brand. Same goes for low-budget European buyers who see the Renault-era Dacias as well priced models with affordable maintenance costs. One of the Romanian firm's latest cars, the Duster was even nominated for the 2011 COTY award.

However, the brand's models aren't exactly exciting, even more so when it comes to sheer performance with their mundane, small displacement petrol and diesel engines. But as always, for every problem there's a fix. This man's answer was to ditch the Logan sedan's four-cylinder and throw in a 2.8-liter VR6 Volkswagen engine.

Details surrounding the build are pretty scarce right now, as it’s an ongoing project. The owner says that the powerplant churns out 174 hp (most likely stock) and it’s coupled to a VW transmission. Other upgrades include the suspension and brake system.

By Csaba Daradics

Source: 4Tuning , Thanks for the tip Valentin M.!

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SPIED: BMW X1 Tries Out M Sport Package

The idea of an M-Package is hardly fresh news for BMW as the Bavarian automaker has been spiffing up its normal production models with sports accessories for years now, the most recent recipients being the latest 5-Series sedan and Touring, and the X3 SUV. Next up on the menu is BMW's smallest crossover model, the X1, which went on sale in Europe and other markets in March 2010, but won't arrive in the U.S. until later in 2011.

As with other M Sport Package models in the range, the upgrades for the X1 will include a host of unique styling cues inside and out, plus larger alloy wheel designs shod in wider tires and a sports tuned suspension.

The prototype models of the X1 with the M Sport Package that were spied by our man with the long lens in Germany had most of the aero parts covered in BMW's traditional swoopy wrap. These include the modified front and rear bumpers plus the new side skirts. Being prototype models, the X1s seen here appear to be fitted with normal alloys, however the actual M Sport Package will offer buyers a choice of special wheel designs.

Inside, while the test car seem pretty much stock, it is certain that BMW will adorn the cabin with M-Sport-sourced steering wheel, handbrake lever, gearbox knob and pedals, as well as unique trim and upholstery for the sports seats. Expect the M Sport Package to join BMW's option list early next year.

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Marangoni's Green-Footed Alfa Romeo Giulietta G430 iMove with 286HP

Italian tire manufacturer Marangoni has teamed up with tuning firm TRC Italia to create a demo version of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1750 Quadrifoglio Verde () and showcase a new series of eco-friendly tires which will soon enter the market.

Dubbed the Giulietta G430 iMove, the demo car is fitted with special tires sized 235/35 R19 tires boasting a fluorescent, green pigment, which glows in the dark. The compound is rich in silica content and other materials, minimizing rolling resistance and, thus, improving fuel consumption. The car rides on 19-inch Barracuda Karizzma wheels, painted in a contrasting black tone.

Like Marangoni's previous demo car, the Alfa Romeo MiTo M430, the G430’s exterior makeover was also inspired by the Ferrari F430. The front bumper has two enormous F430-like air intakes channeling airflow to the brakes, while at the rear we can find a carbon fiber diffuser. Lowered side skirts and a discrete roof spoiler complete the aero kit.

Under the bonnet, a new bearing-mounted turbocharger boosts the four-cylinder unit's output to 286 hp, an increase of 51hp over the standard model.

Engineers also lowered the car by 4 cm (1.6 inches) and fitted KW threaded strut housings that allow multiple height adjustments and shock absorber calibration. The standard brakes were ditched in favor of 330 mm 10-pot Tarox B360 composite disks.

Inside, golf apparel provider Conte of Florence used a combination of leather, Alcantara and carbon fiber, with the seats and door panels trimmed in a quilted theme that evokes Scotland’s golfing tradition. The only problem is that the G430 doesn’t seem like your ideal golfer’s car and there’s not much space left in the boot because of the Segway. But, hey, I guess times are changing and the two-wheel EV could make your life much more easier on the golf course.

TRC Italia said it will offer all components designed for the Giulietta G430 iMove, starting from next year.

The Giulietta G430 iMove will be officially unveiled at Bologna Motor Show in Italy this week.

By Csaba daradics

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